Journal of Applied Pharmacy
Open Access
ISSN: 1920-4159
ISSN: 1920-4159
Anna-Lena Gruber*
Pharmaceutical waste disposal has emerged as a significant public health and environmental issue due to the increasing consumption of medications and inadequate systems for the proper discarding of expired, unused, or leftover drugs. The improper disposal of pharmaceuticals such as flushing them down toilets or discarding them in general household waste has been linked to contamination of water bodies, soil pollution, and the emergence of drug-resistant microorganisms. Pharmacists, being the final point of contact in the medicine distribution chain and key custodians of public drug information, play a critical role in ensuring safe pharmaceutical disposal. This cross- sectional study was conducted among practicing pharmacists across public and private sectors in Austria to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pharmaceutical waste disposal, with the aim of identifying gaps and proposing targeted interventions.
Published Date: 2025-03-04; Received Date: 2025-02-03